Most parents will experience some form of behavioral issue with their teens at some point. However, it can be difficult to know how to deal with it effectively. Behavioral issues come in different shapes and sizes, but there are some commonalities that all parents can keep in mind when dealing with their teen’s behavior. This post will discuss some tips for dealing with your teen’s behavioral issues.
Before going to the tips, you must understand different behaviors in order to deal with them better. Here are some common behaviors parents deal with:
- Disrespectful behavior: This includes talking back, eye-rolling, slamming doors, and general attitude problems.
- Defiance: This is when your teen outright refuses to comply with your requests or rules.
- Lying: Teens often lie to avoid getting in trouble or because they think it will make their life easier.
- Stealing: Many teens shoplift or take things that don’t belong to them.
- Substance abuse: Experimenting with drugs and alcohol is common among teenagers.
Now that you know some of the different types of behaviors parents must deal with, here are the tips:
Establish clear rules and consequences:
This is important for all behavior issues. Your teen needs to know what is expected of them and what will happen if they don’t meet your expectations. Be sure to be consistent with enforcing the rules and consequences.
For example, if your rule is that your teen needs to be home by 10 pm on weeknights, then they need to know what will happen if they break that rule. Will they lose privileges, such as not being able to go out on the weekends? Will you ground them? Establishing clear rules and consequences will help your teen know what is expected of them and will help to prevent future behavioral issues.
Try to avoid power struggles:
Power struggles often escalate behavioral issues. If your teen is feeling defiant, try to stay calm and avoid getting into an argument. It’s also important to pick your battles. There’s no need to fight over every little thing. Instead, choose the battles that are most important to you and let the rest go.
Don’t take their behavior personally:
It can be difficult not to take your teen’s behavior personally, but it’s important to remember that their behavior is not about you. They are going through a lot of changes, and they are working out who they are. So try to be understanding and patient.
Seek professional help if needed:
If the behavior of your teen is escalating, you may want to seek professional help. Professionals have the skills and knowledge to help your teen deal with their behavioral issues in a productive way. They also provide support for both you and your teen.
Second Nature Utah is an excellent example of a professional organization that can help with teen behavior. They offer wilderness therapy which includes “a focus on personal growth and healing through individual, group, and family therapy, as well as experiential activities.”
Encourage positive behavior:
It’s important to remember to praise your teen when they are behaving well. This will help to encourage positive behavior in the future. Let them know that you see their good behavior and that you are proud of them.
Dealing with your teen’s behavioral issues can be difficult, but it is necessary for you as a parent to address them. Be sure to establish clear rules and consequences, try to avoid power struggles, don’t take their behavior personally, and seek professional help if needed. Lastly, remember to encourage their positive behavior.
